Quick Links:

• Commonwealth of Virginia Opportunities in State Government: https://virginiajobs.peopleadmin.com/
• Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Employment: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/human-resources/human-resources/employment/
• Virginia Department of Public Health Employment: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/human-resources/human-resources/employment/ 

How to Obtain a State Job: 

Applicants interested in working for the Commonwealth of Virginia should search the state’s job opportunities page for positions of interest. Select the job posting of interest and review the job responsibilities and minimum qualifications. Select “Apply” to login or establish an account to complete the online application.

The Commonwealth of Virginia has a streamlined state job application (which is also mobile-friendly) that allows interested candidates to submit a resume and minimal personal information, in lieu of a full state application, to be considered for a position. 

The Commonwealth of Virginia requires job applicants to establish an account and then complete an application on Virginia’s job opportunities website. Applicants must submit an application for position they are interested in applying for before they can be considered for the vacant position.

How to Apply: https://ai.wyo.gov/for-job-seekers

Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services 

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) regulates retail food facilities, manufactured foods, produce, and dairy.  The entry level classification utilized by VDACS is:

Environmental Specialist I, Food Safety Specialist
Annual Salary Range:  $37,042 – $98,371

Minimum Qualifications: Knowledge of food safety practices and principles; food processing theory and practices; and dietary supplement safety including structure function claims and labeling. Possess proficient computers skills and standard office applications. Exceptional customer service skills and a verifiable ability to communicate effectively (oral and written); work well with the public under stressful situations as well as the demonstrated ability to interpret and apply laws & regulations and to independently plan, organize and execute job duties including investigating complaints. The ability to assume extensive responsibility, exhibit initiative and reliability, and work independently and in a team environment; to make autonomous decisions and to take appropriate actions in diverse circumstances and environments; to respond to emergency situations and other assigned duties during both traditional and non-traditional work periods; and to effectively plan and organize work activities. Additionally, good visual acuity and the ability to walk, bend, stretch, crouch and lift light loads up to 40 lbs. is needed. Must have (or be eligible for) and maintain a valid driver’s license and have a driving record that reflects a sense of responsibility for highway safety. HS Diploma/GED required.

Prefer: Degree in Food Science, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Health, or a related field. Experience applying food safety principles, food processing and related quality and safety controls at the government level and working knowledge of HACCP (especially as pertaining to seafood) and Virginia Food Laws also preferred. An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

Environmental Specialist I, Produce Safety Specialist
Annual Salary Range:  $37,042 – $98,371

Note: This is a restricted position funded by the FDA Produce Safety Grant.

Minimum Qualifications: Thorough knowledge of food safety principles and practices; knowledge of farming and packing practices preferable as related to fresh produce. Proficient computer skills and standard business applications. Exceptional customer service skills. A verifiable ability to communicate effectively (oral and written); to work well with the public under stressful situations; to interpret and apply laws and regulations; and to independently plan, organize and execute job duties. Ability to assume extensive responsibility, exhibit initiative and work independently and in a team environment; to make autonomous decisions and to take appropriate actions in diverse circumstances; to respond to other assigned duties during both traditional and non-traditional work hours. Must be able to complete FDA Commissioning/Credentialing within approximately 12 months of hire. Physical demands: good visual acuity and ability to walk, bend, stretch, crouch and lift loads up to 40 lbs. Must have (or be eligible for) and maintain a valid Virginia driver’s license and have a driving record that reflects a sense of responsibility for highway safety. H.S Diploma/GED required.

Prefer: Degree in Agricultural Science, Food Science, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Health, or a related field along with current or recent practical experience in a similar position related to a food or produce safety regulatory program, experience applying related safety principles, processing practices & working knowledge of Good Agricultural Practices at the government level. An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge and abilities may substitute for this education and experience. Final candidate must successfully complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check.